Illegal bodywork modifications, in order to provide easy access to the starter motor, were found in post-race scrutineering, stripping the Anglo-Swiss team of its first-ever overall podium finish in the race, and a second place result in the LMP2 class.

While having originally indicated plans to fight the ruling, Rebellion has taken “responsibility for what happened” and “accepts its consequences” per a statement from the team, issued on Friday.

It says “inappropriate intervention, breaking the management chain” led to the situation developing, which resulted in the penalty.

“I would like to personally thank all of our fans for their unconditional support and express my deepest gratitude to our partners for their trust and for making this ‘Vaillante Rebellion’ adventure so special,” said team owner Alexandre Pesci in a statement.

“The team will have the opportunity to prove themselves as a great professional team at the next meeting of the WEC at Nürburgring already and I look forward to seeing you support, alongside with me, the Vaillante Rebellion team.”

The team’s decision not to appeal the ruling confirms the LMP2 results, and a 1-2 class finish for the Jackie Chan DC Racing team.

John Dagys is the founder and Editor-in-Chief of Sportscar365 as well as the recently launched e-racing365 Web site for electric racing. Dagys spent eight years as a motorsports correspondent for FOXSports.com/SPEED Channel, and contributes to other publications worldwide. Contact John